OGDEN, Utah (Sept. 3, 2012) - University of Montana Junior linebacker Jordan Tripp has been named the first Big Sky Conference ROOT SPORTS football Defensive Player of the Week for the 2012 season. Tripp shared the award with Eastern Washington linebacker Ronnie Hamlin. Cal Poly quarterback Andre Broadous is the Offensive Player of the Week. Eastern Washington kicker Jimmy Pavel is the Special Teams Player of the Week.

Tripp, a 6-3 1/2, 244-pound junior from Missoula, made his return to the Grizzly lineup after missing the last 11 games of the 2011 season with an injury. He was quick to show why he was missed on the field last season. Tripp tallied 10 tackles, a sack, a forced fumble, and 1.5 tackles for loss in Montana's 35-24 victory over South Dakota.

"It's a tribute to what type of game Jordan played this week," Delaney said. "It's the first time back on the field for him in almost a year and he played fast and tackled very well. He is very deserving of the honor."

Tripp led a strong performance by the Grizzly defense. The squad limited South Dakota to just nine first downs, 83 rushing yards, and 233 total yards.

"The defense played lights out with exception of a few plays," Delaney said. "Overall we had guys doing what they need to do. Obviously this week we are playing a tough opponent, in a tough environment this week and we will have to be even better."

This is Tripp's first career ROOT SPORTS Player of the Week honor.

Dan Moore was the offensive Player of the week nominee after a career day of 148 yards on 28 carries. Montana did not nominate a player for special teams player of the week.